Overlooked in the US but adored in Europe and Brazil, the Master System flew Sega's 8-bit colours with Alex Kidd, Wonder Boy and Phantasy Star. This Top 20 gathers the console's best, re-tested and re-ranked by RomWize, each title with its re-evaluated score, its versions, their rarity and their collector value.
"One of the most iconic shooters in the Master System catalogue. Difficult, precise and ingeniously designed. The Force device and fantastic level design have lost none of their appeal across the decades."
"An exceptional port of one of Capcom's greatest classics. Brutally difficult and gloriously addictive as tradition demands. The legendary challenge is fully intact - you died in 1989 and you will still die today."
"One of the finest RPGs of its era and a foundational pillar of the genre on console. Vast world, memorable characters and solid combat. Still fascinating to play through today, with genuine soul."
"One of the most iconic action games on the Master System. Joe Musashi versus ninjas - an absolute classic. Precise gameplay, well-calibrated difficulty and varied levels make it a must in the catalogue."
"An avowed Castlevania clone that genuinely holds its own. Van Helsing versus Dracula in Victorian London is a perfect pitch and the gothic action delivers. A must in the catalogue."
"An action-RPG set in the Golden Axe world, clearly Zelda-inspired. Generous exploration, vast world and good length. Perhaps too similar to Zelda to feel original but genuinely well-made."
"A Sonic-universe Puyo Puyo variant that is genuinely addictive and well-made. Perfect for quick sessions or competitive play. One of the best puzzle games on the console without question."
"8-bit Sonic on Master System is an excellent adaptation, distinct from the Mega Drive version. Rethought levels, speed intact. A must-have for the console, often underrated."
"The original Wonder Boy: an enjoyable old-school platform-runner. Run, jump, dodge. Simple as can be but extremely addictive. The foundation of a saga that kept getting better."
"One of the best 8-bit football games available. Smooth top-down view, pure arcade feel and instant pick-up-and-play. Technically dated but the core gameplay remains sharp."
"A faithful port of Sega's masterpiece. The Ferrari, the sunshine, the branching routes and iconic music are all present. Some graphical concessions but the soul of OutRun is perfectly preserved."
"An underrated but genuinely excellent action-RPG. Rich world exploration, satisfying progression and snappy gameplay make it a hidden gem of the Master System library worth rediscovering."
"Ayrton Senna's branded Super Monaco GP II delivers satisfying arcade racing. Good speed sensation and varied tracks. A sincere tribute to the Brazilian champion wrapped in solid F1 gameplay."
"The Castle of Illusion sequel is at least as good, and some prefer it. Mickey is more agile, levels are more inventive. An absolute must-have in the Master System library for platformer fans."
"One of the finest platformers on the system and arguably the best Disney game on it. Imaginative worlds, tight controls and cheerful presentation make it as enjoyable now as in 1990."
"A solid Asterix platform game for the Master System. Fluid movement, varied levels and an atmosphere true to the comics make it a pleasant surprise for 8-bit hardware."
"A very successful adaptation of DMA Design's famous puzzle game. Saving these suicidal little creatures is still as stressful and satisfying as in 1991. A timeless classic that holds up."
"A horizontal shooter on a magic cloud with charming oriental aesthetics. Accessible gameplay and fun power-ups make it easy to enjoy. Not the most challenging but its unique style is endearing."
"A solid port of Sega's classic medieval fantasy beat-'em-up. Three distinct playable characters, great atmosphere and satisfying combat. Some arcade compromises but the essentials are all there."
